Rangers are believed to be in discussions with a soon-to-be free agent who West Ham were targeting back in 2023.
Rangers braced for Hearts showdown in potential title decider
Rangers head into what could be a defining night in their title race next Monday, with a trip to Tynecastle to face Hearts carrying huge significance.
With the margins at the top so tight, it is the kind of fixture that can shape the outcome of an entire season.
Tynecastle is never an easy place to go, particularly with the stakes this high. Hearts have their own title ambitions and pride on the line, and Rangers will need to be at their sharpest both mentally and physically.
Matches like this often come down to fine details — a moment of quality, a defensive lapse, or a decision under pressure.
For Rangers, the challenge is not just about handling the occasion, but maintaining consistency.
Their form has been strong enough to keep them firmly in the hunt, yet there is little room for error at this stage, especially after their collapse at home to Motherwell last weekend.
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Dropped points against Hearts now could prove decisive, which only adds to the importance of delivering a controlled and disciplined performance.
While the immediate focus is on that looming showdown, work behind the scenes is already gathering pace ahead of the summer window.
One position under consideration appears to be full-back, with links emerging to FC Metz defender Koffi Kouao.
Koffi Kouao in talks to join Rangers with FC Metz exit confirmed
According to Media Foot, Rangers are among several clubs exploring a move for the 27-year-old, who is confirmed to be leaving Metz at the end of the season when his contract expires.
The Ivorian has already announced his intention to move on, particularly with Metz’s looming relegation from Ligue 1, and Media Foot state Rangers are among the clubs to have made him an offer with talks described as underway.
Kouao had been considering his future since last winter, as per the report, with the Teddy Bears looking to snap him up on a free transfer.
The full-back brings a solid level of experience.
He has been a regular for Metz since joining in 2022, building up close to 120 appearances for the club across different competitions.
This season alone, he has featured heavily, playing over 2,000 minutes in the league while contributing two goals and two assists from the right flank.
Primarily a right-back, he is also capable of operating on the left or in a more advanced wing-back role. That versatility could appeal to Danny Rohl, particularly with James Tavernier set to leave Ibrox this summer.
Born in Abidjan, he developed at ASEC Mimosas before moving to Europe, where he built his career in Portugal with Vizela and loan spells at Moreirense and Famalicão.
His progression has been gradual, gaining experience across different leagues before stepping into French football.
At 27, he is entering what many would consider his peak years. He is not a long-term project, but rather a player who could arrive ready to compete and contribute immediately.
Interestingly, Kouao was a target for David Moyes at West Ham in 2023, according to reports in France at the time.
For now, attention remains firmly on the pitch.
A result against Hearts could bring Rangers a step closer to the title, setting the tone for how the season will be remembered.
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